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Comparing Viagra to Other ED Drugs

Wednesday 15 December 2021
Viagra
4 minute(s) read
Dr.Stanley Zaslau

Medically reviewed by

Dr Stanley Zaslau, MD

on 22 September 2022


Table of Contents


I. Is Viagra the Only ED Drug?

II. How Effective is Viagra Compared to Other ED Drugs?

III. Comparing the Cost of Viagra

IV. Do All ED Drugs Work the Same Way?

V. Comparing the Side Effects of ED Medications


Is Viagra the Only ED Drug?

Viagra (sildenafil) is a well-known erectile dysfunction (ED) medication used by millions of men worldwide. However, it is not your only option when it comes to choosing your ED drug. You can buy Viagra and other ED drugs at discount prices through Canada Pharmacy Depot.

Other common drugs for improving ED symptoms include Cialis (tadalafil), Stendra (avanafil), and Levitra (vardenafil). All of these ED drugs improve blood flow to the penis and help you achieve an erection in combination with sexual stimulation, but which drug is right for you? Read on to learn more.

a man on a bench using his laptop

How Effective is Viagra?

The efficacy of each ED medication varies between users, but the statistics show that they are effective in approximately 70 percent of men. [1] The effectiveness of ED medications depends on several factors, such as underlying health conditions and physical damage to the sexual organ. For example, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or prostate surgery can damage the nerves or arteries in the penis, causing drugs like Viagra to work less effectively. When used correctly, Viagra is safe to use for long periods.

The effectiveness of ED drugs also depends on how you take them. Viagra and Levitra work less effective after a meal since food can block their absorption. Cialis and Stendra have fewer food interactions and are more effective as on-demand treatment.

Viagra starts working within 30 to 60 minutes and lasts around four hours (same as Levitra), whereas Cialis takes a similar amount of time to take effect but can last up to 36 hours. Stendra takes 15 to 30 minutes to work and lasts between six to 12 hours. [1]

How Much Does Viagra Cost?

When it comes to choosing your ED medication, the cost may be one deciding factor. Men who have chronic ED may need an ongoing supply of ED medications, which can get expensive. The good news is that online Canadian pharmacies like Canada Pharmacy Depot stock brand-name and generic options to help you save.

piles of dollar bills

Because the prices of these erectile dysfunction drugs fluctuate often, it is difficult to determine which option offers the most value. However, generic options are typically more affordable than their brand-name counterparts. [2]

Do All ED Drugs Work the Same Way?

Viagra, Cialis, Stendra, and Levitra all belong to a class of medications called phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) inhibitors. This means that they work in a similar way, enhancing substances in the body that promote blood vessel dilation and flow while blocking the enzyme that stops the erection. Still, these ED drugs will differ slightly due to different ingredients and dosages. [3]

Comparing the Side Effects of ED Medications

Because these ED medications all belong to the same class, they have similar potential side effects, including headaches, flushing, diarrhea, and dizziness. Other common side effects of PDE-5 inhibitors include nasal congestion, changes in hearing, and vision problems. A less common side effect of ED drugs is a prolonged erection. {{4}} If you experience an erection that lasts longer than four hours, call your doctor right away.

a hand holding several pills

Drugs in this class have similar food and drug interactions and should not be taken with blood pressure medications or nitrates. Combining ED drugs with another substance that lowers blood pressure can cause your blood vessels to dilate too much, causing dizziness and other symptoms of low blood pressure.

Although all PDE-5 inhibitors should not be taken with other drugs that lower your blood pressure, your doctor may prescribe one ED drug over another since they come in different dosages. By adjusting your dosage, you may be able to take ED treatments with your blood pressure medication. Visit our Viagra blog for more information on treating ED and other conditions together while minimizing your risk of side effects.

The takeaway is that Viagra (sildenafil) and the other drugs in its class may have similar side effects and work the same way, but the ED drug that suits you best will depend on your treatment needs, underlying health conditions, and cost expectations. While Viagra’s competitors may be newer and last longer, the little blue pill has a proven track record. Talk to your doctor to discuss your treatment goals in more detail.

The content provided in this article is based on thorough research and in some cases, reviewed by a medical professional. Our goal for the information is to provide helpful, general health informational. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice.